Top 9 Mountain Passes around Mauriac
Best mountain passes around Mauriac are found in the Cantal department, France, a region serving as a western gateway to the Parc des Volcans d'Auvergne. This area is in close proximity to the Monts du Cantal, which are remnants of Europe's largest stratovolcano. The landscape offers impressive mountain passes and numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. The terrain features significant elevation changes and provides panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic formations.
Best mountain passes around Mauriac
- The most popular mountain passes…
Last updated: June 26, 2026
Pas de Peyrol Pass (1,589 m)
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Neronne Pass
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Ascent to Puy Mary
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Redondet Pass
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Ascent of the Pas de Peyrol / Puy Mary from Salers
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Col de Légal
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Summit Inn open all year round
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Col de Légal and Route des Crêtes
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From the north it is first quiet and idyllic, partly along a river, further up there are great views …
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Col de Saint-Georges (954 m)
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Ascent of Pas de Peyrol/Puy Mary from Mandailles via Col de Redondet
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Aulac Pass.
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Popular around Mauriac
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Tips from the Community
Either stressful or relaxed from Puy Mary.
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This climb captures everything Auvergne has to offer. Starting in the charming and famous village of Salers, it ends at another symbol of this region known for its volcanoes: Puy Mary. On the bike side, it's a 23-kilometer climb with an average gradient of 3.7%. Be careful, however, as this low gradient is due to the long, five-kilometer flat stretch after the Col de Néronne. Save your energy for the last two kilometers, which are formidable, with a gradient that never drops below 10%.
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Just a stone's throw from Puy Mary, the Pas de Peyrol offers superb views of the Cantal mountains. Its ascent is nearly 12 kilometers long and averages 5.6%.
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Rain, visibility 1m, but otherwise great
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It's steep but you absolutely have to do this pass because the landscape is magnificent.
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From Salers, a pass with low percentages but with a magnificent view of the Santoire valley.
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Col de Légal, at an altitude of 1,231 meters, on the beautiful Route des Crêtes. It allows you to go from the Doire valley to the Bertrande valley, in the heart of the Pays de Salers. There you will find a small inn open all year round.
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At an altitude of 1,588 meters, the Pas de Peyrol is located between the Puy Mary and the Puy de la Tourte. It is known to be the highest road pass in the Massif Central and is worth it, because the last few kilometers have high percentages. There you can admire Puy Mary which peaks at an altitude of 1,783 metres. It is one of the peaks of the Cantal mountains. It is easily recognizable with its pyramidal silhouette.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the mountain passes around Mauriac unique?
The mountain passes around Mauriac are situated in the Monts du Cantal, which are the remnants of Europe's largest stratovolcano. This unique geological history offers spectacular views and a dramatic volcanic landscape, making the area a haven for nature lovers and those seeking impressive scenery.
What kind of views can I expect from the mountain passes near Mauriac?
You can expect magnificent panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape. For instance, from Pas de Peyrol Pass (1,589 m), you can admire the pyramidal silhouette of Puy Mary. Redondet Pass offers a superb panorama of the Cirque du Falgoux and Puy Mary, while Neronne Pass provides wonderful views of the valleys and surrounding mountains.
What is the difficulty level of mountain passes near Mauriac?
The difficulty varies. Passes like Pas de Peyrol Pass (1,589 m) are known for significant gradients in their final kilometers, making them challenging climbs, especially for cyclists. Other passes, like Col de Saint-Georges (954 m), might offer more intermediate experiences. The region provides a variety of passes from challenging ascents to more accessible routes.
Are there family-friendly mountain passes or activities around Mauriac?
While many passes offer challenging climbs, the region also provides opportunities for families. For example, Pas de Peyrol Pass (1,589 m) is listed as family-friendly, suggesting that while the ascent can be tough, the destination itself and nearby areas offer suitable experiences. Always check specific route details for suitability with children.
Are there facilities or places to stop at the mountain passes?
Yes, some passes offer facilities. For instance, at Neronne Pass, you'll find the “Auberge du Col de Neronne” which provides an opportunity to stop and even stay overnight. Similarly, Col de Légal has an inn open year-round, making it a convenient stop for travelers.
When is the best time to visit the mountain passes around Mauriac?
The best time to visit is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to October), when the passes are clear of snow and weather conditions are most favorable for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the panoramic views. Some passes, like Col de Légal, have facilities open year-round, but access to higher passes might be restricted by snow in winter.
Are there hiking trails near the mountain passes around Mauriac?
Yes, the Monts du Cantal region is excellent for hiking. Passes like Col de Cabre are part of long-distance hiking trails such as the GR 4 and GR 400. You can find various hiking routes, including easy options like the Pas de Peyrol – Puy Mary Summit loop, by exploring the Easy hikes around Mauriac guide.
Are there cycling routes that include these mountain passes?
Absolutely. The mountain passes around Mauriac are popular for cycling, including challenging ascents that have been part of the Tour de France. You can find numerous road cycling routes, such as the 'Pas de Peyrol Pass (1,589 m) – Serre Pass loop from Antignac' or the 'Neronne Pass – Pas de Peyrol Pass (1,589 m) loop from Salers', in the Road Cycling Routes around Mauriac guide. There are also MTB trails available, detailed in the MTB Trails around Mauriac guide.
Can I hike with my dog on trails near Mauriac mountain passes?
Many outdoor areas in France are dog-friendly, especially on trails. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock, and to check local regulations for specific trails or protected areas within the Parc des Volcans d'Auvergne. Ensure your dog is well-behaved and that you carry waste bags.
What is the highest road pass in the Massif Central near Mauriac?
The highest road pass in the Massif Central is Pas de Peyrol Pass (1,589 m). It is located between Puy Mary and Puy de la Tourte and is renowned for its challenging ascent and rewarding panoramic views of Puy Mary.
Which mountain pass offers a passage between the Doire and Bertrande valleys?
Col de Légal (1,231 m) provides passage between the Doire valley and the Bertrande valley, nestled in the heart of the Pays de Salers. It also features an inn that is open year-round.
Are there any less-known mountain passes worth exploring near Mauriac?
While not as high as Pas de Peyrol, Aulac Pass offers an intermediate experience with natural monument status and viewpoints. It provides a different perspective of the region's beauty away from the most frequented spots.
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